Zoe RocheMy first week with braces was a disaster. I was 14, already awkward enough, and now I had a metal cage in my mouth that turned every meal into a food trap.
The constant tightening appointments with the orthodontist had me popping painkillers like Tic Tacs!
Then, one month in, one of the brackets popped off, cutting the inside of my lip. That was the final straw—I was ready to rip my braces out.
To save others from having a horrible braces experience like I did, I teamed up with the Auckland Magazine team. We checked out several top-rated orthodontists and talked to actual patients to compile a list of the best places to get braces in Auckland.
Whether you’re a self-conscious teen like I was or an adult looking to straighten your smile, these are the orthodontists you’ll want to see.
How much does it cost to get braces in Auckland?
It costs at least 6,000 NZD to get braces in Auckland.
The cost will vary depending on the type of braces you get, how long you’ll need them, and the orthodontist you choose.
How We Chose
1. Donna Lim Orthodontics
Address: 161 Stoddard Road, Mount Roskill
Contact details: +64 9 869 8288
Operating hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
- Wednesday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 8:45 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 8 AM to 12 PM
If you want robots to help adjust your braces, run—don’t walk—to Donna Lim Orthodontics.
Donna Lim’s use of the SureSmile system helps form your smile with laser-sharp precision. Essentially, robotic hands expertly bend the wires, ensuring your teeth move perfectly into place.
That said, even if Donna Lim had to do it manually, her 20 years of orthodontic work experience show serious know-how!
Plus, for those who speak Cantonese, Dr. Lim is bilingual.
Because of her years of expertise and dedication to her craft, it’s no wonder that her patients are thrilled with the outcomes. They told us that the braces are more efficient and require fewer adjustments.
Here’s our favorite part that would have been convenient in our teens: you can track your progress digitally with their orthodontic smartphone app.
All you have to do is take a selfie of your teeth and the app’s AI will compare the tooth movement to Dr. Lim’s prescription.
The only complaint we’ve heard was that the upfront deposit for treatment was expensive.
They were really helpful in offering advice
I overall had a positive experience at Donna Lim orthodontics. Staff there were super friendly and communicative especially when I had to reschedule appointments. During my braces treatment they were really helpful in offering advice and answering any questions/concerns I had. 5/5 experience!!
–Carmen C, Google Review
They made it so easy for my daughter
Donna and her team were amazing. The communication and care taken from start to finish was fantastic. They made it so easy for my daughter and us. If you are looking for an orthodontist in Auckland I would highly recommend!
–Kellie Brown, Google Reviews
2. Milk Orthodontics
Address: 2 Nuffield Street Corner of Nuffield St and, Remuera Road, Newmarket
Contact details: +64 9 520 1880
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 8 AM to 1 PM
Dr. Shaz has an impressive resume with a doctorate, master’s, and two bachelor’s degrees.
We observed her in action with her patients, and she was attentive to detail with excellent bedside manners.
She specialises in early treatment for kids ages 7 and up, helping many kids get that perfect smile before they reach middle school.
Many parents we spoke with appreciated that Lightforce braces offer less discomfort compared to traditional metal options.
Moreover, they are impressed by how affordable Milk Orthodontics has made these treatments. They offer flexible and completely interest-free payment plans that help many get the treatment they need.
That said, if you’re an adult seeking orthodontic care, please note that their waitlist is currently full.
Quick to answer questions, gentle and kind
Had an amazing experience at Milk Orthodontics
after transferring from another orthodontist where I wasn’t able to get support. Dr Shaz, Cleo, and the team are excellent, super helpful, quick to answer questions, gentle and kind which is exactly what you want when someone is in your mouth! I had to get adult braces for a few months to correct a small problem, and I almost fell asleep while they were installed as it was so calming. Everything they did was explained clearly, I felt really respected and I’m so happy with the results. Even taking a mould for a retainer was stress free! Would recommend highly, worth every cent.
–Jenny knight, Google Reviews
Shaz and her team are 100% professional
My daughter has just finished two years of braces. We chose Milk initially due to location and competitive price, but we got so much more. Shaz and her team are 100% professional, with excellent communication and support and they made my daughter feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. The results are spectacular.
–Angela lindfield, Google Review
3. Dr. Kimberley Timmins Specialist Orthodontist Ltd
Address: 4 Knights Road, Rothesay Bay
Contact Details: +64 9 479 6263
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 1 PM
Dr. Kimberley Timmins is an approachable orthodontist who does a great job of explaining things clearly. When we observed patient consultations, she took the time to explain the whole process involved with getting Invisalign.
Several people we interviewed love how discreet their aligners are and appreciate that they can eat whatever they want—no diet changes necessary.
For those seeking alternative options, Dr. Timmins also specializes in traditional and clear ceramic braces.
Additionally, we witnessed firsthand how the iTero digital scanner and digital X-rays provide incredibly accurate measurements for personalised treatment plans.
This technology demonstrates Dr. Timmins and her team’s commitment to delivering advanced and effective orthodontic care.
However, some patients mentioned having to wait long in the waiting room for their appointments.
They made the whole treatments simple and easy to follow
Dr Kimberley Timmins is an excellent orthodontist. Our daughter is really happy with the her teeth now. The staffs are very friendly and make sure we understand all the procedures. They made the whole treatments simple and easy to follow. Thank you.
–Emma Zhang, Google Reviews
We are well informed on how the treatment is going
I highly recommend Brook and Timmins. My daughter just finished her treatment and the results are amazing. My daughter is so happy and very thankful. It is so easy to deal with them and very accommodating. We are well informed on how the treatment is going and communication is great. Thank you to the team and Dr Kimberley .
–Florame Wotton, Google Reviews
4. Eden Orthodontics
Address: 114 Dominion Road, Mount Eden
Contact details: +64 9 623 4104
Operating hours:
- Monday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Friday – 9 AM to 1:30 PM
From traditional metal to discreet ceramic and Invisalign, Eden Orthodontics offers a variety of braces options.
Several patients we interviewed raved about the comfort and aesthetics of Lightforce 3D braces. These braces are clear so they’re less noticeable. They also straighten teeth faster because they’re custom-made to fit your teeth precisely.
For those seeking a completely hidden option, the lingual braces are a popular choice for their incognito design.
Beyond the braces themselves, the orthodontists here take the time to understand each of their patient’s goals and concerns. They then tailor their treatment plans accordingly.
In fact, other patients shared how the team’s thorough explanations helped alleviate their anxiety, making the entire process more comfortable.
As an added bonus, Eden offers flexible financing options, from interest-free payment plans to upfront discounts.
That said, we’ve heard complaints about double payment charges if you have to leave during your appointment.
All options and information were given in a non pressured way
My 14 year old had Invisalign from Eden orthodontics and we are extremely happy with the results. The service is exceptional and streamlined and he was able (and supported) to be independent with the process. The staff are friendly and helpful, and Dr Rachel is lovely. All options and information were given in a non pressured way. Convenient location and parking a bonus, and the payment plan straightforward. Can recommend highly.
–Dodd Family, Google Reviews
Very professional and tidy place
Dr.Rachael and Eden orthodontics Team are wonderful and very friendly. It’s been an amazing journey for my son for almost 3 years. He has a beautiful smile with perfectly aligned teeth. Credit goes to Eden orthodontics. Very professional and tidy place highly recommend it.
–Ujwala puli, Google Reviews
5. Shakespeare Orthodontics
Address: 2 Owens Road, Epsom
Contact details: +64 9 216 6888
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
Shakespeare Orthodontics offers free consultations with experienced orthodontists—Azza, Mo, and Adriana. Their combined experience of over 45 years gave us confidence in their expertise.
During our test consultation, they took the time to understand our unique needs and provided us with a straightforward treatment plan.
We appreciated that the orthodontists considered our lifestyle and preferences when recommending options like traditional braces, clear aligners, or Invisalign.
We also spoke with other patients who praised the team’s dedication to ensuring their comfort throughout setting up their braces.
Many loved that their staff were always available to answer questions and address their concerns, providing reassurance and peace of mind.
However, we also heard that appointments are occasionally cancelled by the receptionists without prior notice.
Dr. Mo and Dr. Adriana has transformed my daughter’s smile
We had an amazing experience at Shakespeare Orthodontics Epsom. The office is clean and modern.The staff is professional, friendly, pleasant, and they truly care about the client. During my daughter ‘s orthodontic treatment, she was treated by Dr Mo and Dr Adriana; they are knowledgeable, great at their craft, and works well with clients to achieve desired results. Dr Mo and Dr Adriana has transformed my daughter’s smile into a beautiful and confident smile. We thoroughly endorse Dr Mo, Dr Adriana and the dedicated team at Shakespeare Orthodontics. Thank you so much! We really appreciate it!
–Nikki Chan, Google Reviews
Their attention to detail and their care are second to none
Dr. Mo and Dr. Azza are hands down the best in their game! Both myself and my daughter have had treatment with them and we couldn’t be happier. Their attention to detail and their care are second to none. Plus, they’re the loveliest! And the whole team is equally as amazing! So much so that my daughter looks forward to her appointments. So happy we found them and would 100% recommend them to anyone.
–Marie Tiongson, Google Reviews
